"Salem State has no tolerance for discrimination and hate, and we strongly reject and condemn this message. This deeply troubling language has no place at our university as we strive to be as inclusive a campus as possible," said Keenan.

Salem Mayor Kim Driscoll, who is a graduate of the University, also denounced the hate graffiti in a statement, saying:

"I believe that the Salem State campus community and our city remain committed to standing up to bigotry and hatred, while also working tirelessly to bridge our differences and support each other within the diverse, vibrant community we are all fortunate enough to call home," said Driscoll.